Stock transport across Nullarbor 'mass cruelty'

The animal welfare group, Animals Australia, says unprecedented transport of livestock to eastern states from Western Australia is cruelty on a mass scale.

More than 700,000 sheep and cattle have been transported east to escape drought in WA.

The transport industry says animal welfare is paramount, but the executive director of Animals Australia, Glenys Oogjes, says the process is inherently traumatic.

She says animals go without food and water for 48 hours and many die.

"We know that [in] the current circumstances there have been some trucks arrive with dozens of sheep already dead. It is quite horrific for the animals involved," she said.

"We think it's abominable that they are being brought right across the Nullarbor just to make more profit.

"Interstate transportation in this case should not be allowed. There is suffering involved and unless there is an individual report that can be investigated by the authorities then they're getting away with it."

The RSPCA in South Australia said it received information about one truckload, but referred the matter to Victoria's Primary Industries Department because the truck had entered Victoria by the time it could take any action.

The RSPCA says it understands the need for farm animals to be transported long distances but tougher national rules are needed.

The Society's scientific officer for farm animals, Melina Tensen, says proposed national standards for transporting animals have been developed.

"What the RSPCA would like to see is this implementation happen sooner rather than later," she said.

"Particularly with these record numbers of animals being trucked from WA to the eastern states, it's all the more important that animal welfare is front of mind and that such issues as maximum time off water are actually enforced."